Search

I develop a conceptual approach to changes in masculinity that emphasizes the dynamics of the gender order as a whole. Homosexual masculinity is an important locus of these dynamics. After a critique of conventional discourses of masculinity I develop a theorized life-history method for researching gender. Analysis of eight life histories from an Australian gay community finds (1) initial engagement with hegemonic masculinity, (2) sexuality as the key site of difference, and (3) gradual closure based on relationships or on bodily experience that eroticizes similarity. Conventional masculinity is an aspect of the object of desire, yet is subverted by this object-choice; a contradictory masculinity is produced. Though the men in this study do not directly contest the gender order, the reification of "gayness" provides a social basis for sexual freedom, and the stabilization of a dissident sexuality opens possibilities for change in the social structure of gender. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined HIV optimism and unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) in a nationwide sample of gay and homosexually active men. Questionnaires were distributed throughout Australia through pornographic catalogues. 1832 men responded, 1181 (64.5%) classified as gay community attached (GCA) and 651 (35.5%) as non-GCA (NGCA). Mean HIV optimism scores tended toward scepticism rather than optimism, with no significant difference between GCA and NGCA men. Men who had UAI with regular partners were significantly more optimistic than men who did not (P<0.001). There was a significant UAI-casual/GCA interaction (P<0.001). GCA men who engaged in UAI-casual were significantly more optimistic than GCA men who did not (P<0.001). Likewise, NGCA men who had UAI-casual were significantly more optimistic than NGCA men who did not (P<0.001). These findings corroborate earlier evidence that gay men's UAI is associated with - not necessarily caused by - HIV optimism. Importantly, these data come from a broad national sample rather than one drawn from within a 'gay precinct'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]